Network Convergence For The Smaller
Business
Combining Voice, Video and Data
on the same network is not just for major enterprises.
Convergence has been a hot topic for medium
to large enterprises the last few years. Basically, convergence
is all about consolidating networks. It's a form of technical
merger. By combining multiple independent networks into a single
unified communications network, you should wind up with an easier
to manage, easier to deploy, and hopefully lower cost of operations
network infrastructure.
Voice, Video and Data Convergence
In most cases, what has been driving convergence is the move
toward enterprise VoIP. Business networks are usually grouped
into voice, data and video. Voice has been the telephone system
with analog or digital handsets, PBX switching systems and twisted
pair telephone cable. Data has pretty much standardized into
IP based LANs interconnecting workstations and servers, with
T1 or T3 WAN connections to the outside world. Video security
has been analog based cameras, recorders and switchers, although
videoconferencing has been an extension of the telephone system.
Now that VoIP standards and equipment are
mature enough to convert the telephone system to the same network
transmission standards as the data LANs and dedicated Internet
connections, the notion of having one converged network managed
by a single IT department with common cabling to all locations
starts to make economic sense. But that's for the big companies
with their big staffs, thousands of phones, racks full of servers,
and hundreds of miles of plant wiring. Isn't it?
Actually, the idea of convergence is also
a potential cost saver for even the small business operators.
Here are some examples of where it makes sense.
Convergence Using Integrated T1 Lines
Many business that started out with just a desk and a business
phone line now have maybe a dozen lines, a PBX or KEY telephone
system and broadband Internet access. Did you know that there
is a digital service that combines these networks for you? You
might not even have to replace any equipment. The service I'm
referring to is called Integrated T1. A single T1 line can support
up to 24 separate phone lines or, say, a combination of 12 phone
lines plus broadband Internet access. The carrier provides you
with an Integrated Access Device that makes the split and connects
the phone service to your telephone system and the Internet access
to your network router.
Convergence Using the Ethernet Standard
Another approach to convergence is to use your 10 Mbps Ethernet
or 100 Mbps Fast Ethernet LAN to handle both your computer equipment
and telephones. In this case, you keep the LAN network you have
now but add more bandwidth if you need it for your phones. You
buy VoIP based telephones, including an IP PBX or Virtual PBX
Service. This is an especially popular solution for business
locations that either need a big upgrade in capacity due to growth
or are in the construction phase. Your connection to the Internet
is by a dedicated T1 line or bonded T1s for more capacity.
How about video? Video phones that are
VoIP based are readily available that connect to a IP network.
You can also do desktop videoconferencing with PC based software
or use a larger system that runs on VPN software through your
broadband Internet service. IP based security systems include
security cams on your network.
What approach to convergence makes sense
for your business? If you have a something larger than a home
office, our business telecom specialists are happy to discuss
the options, including Integrated T1 telephone & Internet
or T1 dedicated Internet access. Just put in a request by phone
or online form at T1 Rex.
What Retail Bandwidth is Best For Your
Business
If you have retail or restaurant point of sale systems, or other
inventory control systems that need high speed digital bandwidth,
let us help you find the most cost effective solution that meets
your requirements. Simply fill out the form below to see instant
pricing on most services. Or call toll free 1-866-436-7868 Ref. # 1265
to talk to our technical consultants about your business needs
and receive customized proposals.
